What it's about: After a mischievous Jersey Devil follows Elliott and Uchenna home from a field trip, the two new friends team up with their eccentric teacher, Professor Fauna, to keep the not-so-mythical creature safe.

Series alert: This zany illustrated chapter book kicks off the Unicorn Rescue Society series.

For fans of: the Imaginary Veterinary series by Suzanne Selfors or the Pip Bartlett books by Jackson Pearce and Maggie Stiefvater.

What it's about: Charlotte and Ben live far apart, yet over the course of one week, their online Scrabble rivalry turns into a friendship that helps each of them deal with painful situations at home and at school.

Why you might like it: You get the inside scoop on the thoughts and feelings of both smart, awkward characters as they fumble their way towards friendship.

About the author: Erin Entrada Kelly won the 2018 Newbery Medal for her book Hello, Universe.

What it's about: Zoe wants a baby grand piano, so she can fulfill her dreams of becoming a child prodigy. But after her dad panics at the music store, Zoe gets an electric organ, along with a songbook of oldies and a teacher who encourages her to compete in the Perform-O-Rama organ contest.

Who it's for: anyone looking for a quirky, feel-good story about chasing your dreams, however imperfectly.

What it's about: Heartbroken over the death of this grandfather, Cool Papa, harmonica player Clayton runs away to join Cool Papa's blues band...only to discover a different kind of music in the underground world of the New York subway.

Why you might like it: No matter what kind of music you like, you can relate to authentic characters and emotions in this moving story by the author of One Crazy Summer.

Starring:ten-year-old Cadence, who's been hiding her amazing singing voice through years of extreme shyness. This year, however, she's determined to share her musical gift with her church...or at least that was the plan, before a leaked secret recording changed things.

Why you might like it: With her cozy hometown, uncertain friendships, and complicated family, Cadence is a down-to-earth character you'll root for even as she struggles to find her voice.

Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 8-11!

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